Conscription Once More

The Duke, feigning deafness, closed his eyes.

The Earl, who had initially inquired of Osborne, stood and steadied Lanvin, speaking to him, "Lanvin, do not harbor anger. Osborne has confessed, and the accounts now tally. But consider, what if the embezzler had been someone else? Without the capacity to identify the culprit, can the Duke's finances truly be secure? Lanvin, you are young, and failure now is not the end. Return and learn from others how to manage economics; opportunities will come again." 

Lanvin, accepting the decision, left the assembly in indignation.

Osborne, meanwhile, was taken to the dungeon by the castle guards, bringing this matter to a close.

Three days passed at Fernsouth Castle, and Howard received news from Mibo's relatives.

Subsequently, Howard spent each day practicing swordsmanship with Margaret and Resarite, deepening their friendship but without significant events occurring.